Northern Laos by Train: 9-Day Cultural Tour
Travel through northern Laos from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, with train journeys linking river towns, mountain scenery, and local communities along the way. The route includes Luang Prabang, Pak Ou, Kuang Si Waterfall, Muang Xai, Luang Nam Tha, Muang Sing, Vang Vieng, and the capital, Vientiane. It is designed as a small-group trip with guided sightseeing and time to experience Lao culture, landscapes, and daily life. What to expect River and cave scenery near Luang Prabang Train travel across northern Laos Mountain and village visits in the north Karst scenery in Vang Vieng Final stay in Vientiane The program combines city visits, cultural stops, and time outdoors. It follows a practical overland route, with several rail sections and guided transfers between destinations.
Key details
9 days
8 nights
Route
Laos
Tour type
Small groups
Available departures
Dates available
Duration
9 days
Travel style
Small groups
Destination
Laos
Route
Luang Prabang · Pak Ou · Kuang Si Waterfall · Muang Xai · Luang Nam Tha · Muang Sing · Vang Vieng · Vientiane
Highlights
- Small group travel
- City & Culture
- Family friendly
- Custom itinerary options
Itinerary
- 1
Luang Prabang
Arrival in Luang Prabang
Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to your centrally located hotel. After a short rest, visit the former Royal Palace museum, Wat Mai, and Mount Phousi. In the evening, browse the night market before overnighting in Luang Prabang.D - 2
Luang Prabang
Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si Waterfall
Visit Wat Sene and Wat Xieng Thong before taking a Mekong River cruise to the Pak Ou Caves. Continue with stops in local villages, then head to Kuang Si Waterfall for time at the pools and forest paths. Overnight in Luang Prabang.B, L - 3
Muang Xai
Train to Muang Xai
Take the express train north and continue to your stay at Namkat Yolapa. After check-in, enjoy a short jungle walk to the Namkat waterfall. Overnight in the Muang Xai area.B, L
The itinerary is for reference and may vary by selected departure.
What's included
- Accommodation in shared rooms with daily breakfast
- Professional English-speaking guides at each destination
- Private air-conditioned transportation and rail travel as stated in the program
- Meals listed in the itinerary
- Admission fees to the included sights
- Boat trip where specified in the program
- Drinking water and tissue during the tour
- Government taxes and service charges
What's not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees if applicable
- Pre- and post-tour accommodation
- Meals and beverages not listed in the itinerary
- Airport transfers outside the tour dates
- Personal expenses
- Massage and spa services
Dates & availability
Updating availabilitySelect departure month and travellers.
Upcoming departures
10 dates · 10 optionsImportant information
Flexibility
Flights, extra nights and private experiences can be added before confirmation.
Before you go
Your final itinerary, documents and local contacts will be available in My Kata.